MRes Linguistics

Program Overview

The MRes Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London offers an intensive, research-focused curriculum aimed at students who wish to deepen their understanding of linguistics and develop high-level research skills. This program provides a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied linguistics, with a strong emphasis on independent research. Students in the MRes program benefit from personalized supervision and guidance from world-renowned experts in linguistics, allowing them to pursue their own research interests in a supportive academic environment. The program is particularly suited for those wishing to pursue PhD studies, as it offers training in advanced research methodologies, data analysis, and the design of original linguistic research projects. Students will also have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research at the university, gaining exposure to cutting-edge linguistic work and contributing to the academic community.

Curriculum: The MRes Linguistics program at QMUL has a structured curriculum that combines core modules in research methodology with specialized courses in various subfields of linguistics. The core modules focus on developing advanced research skills, including training in data collection, analysis, and interpretation, as well as methods in experimental, computational, and qualitative research. Students will also take modules in specialized areas of linguistics, such as syntax, phonology, sociolinguistics, semantics, language acquisition, and psycholinguistics. The curriculum provides flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their specific research interests. In addition to the taught modules, the program includes a significant research component in the form of an independent dissertation or research project, where students apply their learning to a substantial original piece of research. This emphasis on independent research ensures that students graduate with a well-rounded understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of linguistics, as well as the skills necessary for conducting high-quality academic research.

Research Focus: Research is at the heart of the MRes Linguistics program at Queen Mary University of London. The university has a strong tradition of research excellence in linguistics, with a focus on key areas such as syntax, phonology, sociolinguistics, language processing, language acquisition, and historical linguistics. Students are encouraged to engage in cutting-edge research and explore a wide range of linguistic phenomena. The program’s research focus is interdisciplinary, drawing on insights from cognitive science, psychology, anthropology, and computational modeling. Students will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of research projects, working alongside leading linguists to tackle complex questions about language structure, use, and evolution. Whether investigating the nature of language in the brain, exploring the social aspects of language use, or examining language variation across cultures, students can pursue a research project that aligns with their interests and career goals. The research culture at QMUL is collaborative, providing students with ample opportunities to engage with faculty members and fellow researchers in the linguistic community.

Industry Engagement: The MRes Linguistics program at Queen Mary University of London also emphasizes practical industry engagement, offering students the opportunity to connect with professionals in language-related fields. The university maintains strong links with industry partners in areas such as language technology, publishing, education, media, and language consultancy. These industry connections provide valuable networking opportunities and allow students to apply their research skills in real-world settings. Guest lectures, workshops, and seminars with experts from various industries further enrich the academic experience, providing students with insights into how linguistic research is applied in practice. Students may also have the opportunity to participate in internships or collaborative research projects with industry partners, allowing them to gain experience and build professional relationships that will benefit their careers. The program’s focus on industry engagement ensures that students not only develop theoretical and research expertise but also gain practical experience that enhances their employability in the linguistics and language sectors.

Global Perspective: Queen Mary University of London’s MRes Linguistics program offers students a global perspective on the study of language. The program’s research and curriculum reflect the diverse and multilingual nature of modern linguistics, addressing language issues in a global context. Students are exposed to a wide range of linguistic traditions, from the study of endangered languages and multilingualism to sociolinguistic variation and global communication. The program also encourages students to explore the global dimensions of linguistic research, such as language policy, language rights, and the preservation of linguistic diversity. With access to a global network of linguists and researchers, students at QMUL have the opportunity to engage in international collaborations and contribute to the global discourse on linguistic issues. The program prepares students to understand and address language challenges in different cultural, social, and political contexts, making them well-equipped to work in international settings or engage with global linguistic initiatives.